We Quit!
We live in a hustle culture. Busyness is celebrated. We want instant gratification. The issue is, being self-employed, owning a business the overwhelming list of responsibilities is always there. Stress is felt constantly and there is no room to “turn off work” and no space to take care of ourselves. We believe there is another way, so, we’ve decided to quit!
We are learning about gentle business. It emphasizes a more balanced and sustainable approach to entrepreneurship. It focuses on incorporating self-care, mindfulness, and work-life balance into the business journey. The gentle business philosophy encourages entrepreneurs to prioritize their well-being, set realistic goals, and foster a positive work environment. It advocates for slower growth, emphasizing quality over quantity and creating long-lasting relationships. Discovering more about yourself, how you work and what “done” looks like for each individual.
Take us for example. I can get a lot of work done in a short amount of time. I am able to multitask quickly from one project to the next, and can also be thinking about the next thing I need to do while I am focused on my current one. I don’t waste time with the systems, I jump in and get things done. I also however cannot work a full 8+ hour day. I am done mentally around 2pm. I need to step away and take a break. Self-care is non-negotiable for me. My strength is in my insight, and waiting for the right opportunities are key. Often my greatest gift is in my perspective and not in what I do. This is why office jobs suck the life out of me. Why being paid by the hour is not in my favor, but checking off lists quickly is a huge win for our clients.
Ben on the other hand is very systematic. He needs order to perform at his best. He needs to chart his own schedule, and feel the freedom to focus on one project at a time when he is ready. For him, interruptions or multiple projects as once can hinder him from knowing where to start. He is energized by the work, and the variety. He likes to feel supported in his work, but needs to ebb and flow at his own pace. He can put in a full 10 hour day and while tired, can still function well and could probably even put together a creative project if the inspiration struck. We have to set aside time to talk about things specifically, and when I jump from one topic to the next, he gets frustrated.
I highly encourage you to learn about human design. It was eye opening for me to learn about myself as a projector. That I absorb the energy around me. Also, why I had no clue working a full day is not how I function well, and rest is mandatory. When we are working together, Ben can cruise right through the day. Because I absorb that energy, I too was crushing the day project after project but exhausted! Now, I communicate that I need to stop. Sometimes we will take a break together, or Ben will ask if it’s ok that he keeps working a bit longer to wrap things up. Knowing how you function at your best, when to give yourself space and permission to pause can change your life!
Ok, back to where we are now. We are throwing out the “burn out hustle game”. We want to work from a space that encourages us all to take a more holistic approach, recognizing the importance of mental, physical, and emotional well-being. We are choosing to be proactive, not reactive. Working on projects that are part of long term goal and strategy, and not quick short term results. We are moving our clients with us, and it is truly so beneficial! Deadlines are not “today by 5pm, and stay later if you don’t get it done”.
We are planning ahead, creating to-do lists that are not only for this week, but next month/quarter. We know where we are headed, and the journey is welcoming and not a burden.
We are not there yet, but we are learning and choosing a more balanced and sustainable way to work.
Care to join us?
